The American Society of Radiologic Technologists Foundation has funded a research project by Tanya Custer, assistant professor and distance education coordinator for the UNMC Department of Medical Imaging & Therapeutic Sciences in the College of Allied Health Professions.

Custer's study will evaluate the role of e-modules in imaging science curricula at three academic medical centers. The study will seek to determine if case-based e-modules improve exam outcomes compared to students who participated in standard education methods.

An e-module is computer-based educational content about 10 to 15 minutes in duration. E-modules typically have only one or two learning concepts and incorporate a blend of teaching and assessment tools that may include video clips, direct instruction, gaming elements and social media.

A grant of nearly $10,000 was awarded to fund the study, which is titled "The Impact of Case-Based E-learning on Student Knowledge and Critical Thinking in the Imaging Sciences Curriculum."

"I am very excited to begin this study with my co-investigator, Kim Michael," Custer said. "I am extremely grateful to the ASRT Foundation for its support. I also would like to extend my thanks to our multi-institutional team and our research team at UNMC."

Michael is an associate professor and program director of diagnostic medical sonography education and associate director of the Interprofessional Academy of Educators.

This multi-institutional, multidisciplinary study will be conducted at UNMC, Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and at Rush University in Chicago.

"We are delighted to fund this important research, which will provide valuable data for academic medical centers," said ASRT Foundation Executive Vice President Steven Hardy. "Because of the generous support of donors, this study will add to our scientific body of knowledge and help advance the profession. It shows the deep commitment our donors have to the medical imaging and radiation therapy community."

The ASRT Foundation offers research grants of up to $10,000 to study topics in radiologic sciences. The funds are set aside each year exclusively for ASRT members. More information about research grant opportunities including application information is available on the ASRT Foundation website.